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AFRICMIL Urges Police to End Attacks on Journalists Amid #EndBadGovernance Protests

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The African Centre for Media & Information Literacy (AFRICMIL) has expressed grave concern over the recent assaults on journalists reporting on the #EndBadGovernance protests taking place in various regions of the country.

The organization has urged Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, along with other security agencies, to uphold their duty of maintaining law and order while respecting citizens’ rights.

Despite President Bola Tinubu’s recent address aimed at addressing the situation, the protests, which began on August 1, 2024, persist in several states across the nation.

In a statement released on Monday, AFRICMIL’s coordinator, Dr. Chido Onumah, condemned the violence perpetrated by police officers against journalists and other citizens. The group emphasized that such actions violate the constitutional right to freedom of assembly and expression.

The statement underscored that the Nigerian Constitution (1999), specifically Chapter 4, Section 39 (1), guarantees every individual’s right to freedom of expression, which includes the freedom to hold opinions, receive information, and disseminate ideas without undue interference.

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Attacking journalists who are merely performing their professional duties, and brutalizing citizens for exercising their right to protest, constitutes a severe breach of this constitutional guarantee.

AFRICMIL highlighted that the #EndBadGovernance protests did not arise spontaneously. They are a direct response to the severe economic hardship inflicted upon Nigerians due to poorly executed policies, extravagant government spending, and mismanagement of the economy.

The protests are a reaction to the government’s abrupt and poorly planned removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, which have led to significant increases in the cost of goods and services.

This economic strain has been compounded by what the group describes as the government’s insensitive spending on non-essential items, such as a new residence for the Vice President and luxury vehicles for lawmakers.

Given the severe impact of these policies and the lack of measures to mitigate their adverse effects, it is understandable why citizens have taken to the streets to express their grievances through the #EndBadGovernance protests.

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AFRICMIL asserts that the police have no justification for attacking journalists covering these events or for using violence against peaceful protesters.

The organization has reiterated its call for the Inspector General of Police to address the misconduct of his officers and to immediately cease all forms of harassment against journalists performing their roles.

AFRICMIL stresses that protecting the rights of journalists and protesters is crucial for upholding democratic principles and ensuring that citizens can voice their concerns without fear of retribution.


 

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Tinubu Visits Maiduguri After Devastating Flood

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President Ahmed Bola Tinubu has arrived in Maiduguri to extend his sympathies to the government and people of Borno State following the devastating flood caused by the Alau Dam.

According to reports, the president touched down in Maiduguri at approximately 3:15 pm, where he was welcomed by Governor Babagana Zulum.

The flood, which struck earlier in the week, submerged large portions of Maiduguri, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread destruction of properties.

During his visit, President Tinubu is expected to pay a courtesy visit to the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Umar-Garbai El-Kaneni.

From there, he plans to visit one of the camps set up to house those displaced by the disaster and offer support to the affected communities.

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The flood has caused extensive damage across the state, leading the Borno government to establish 36 camps to accommodate the thousands of displaced individuals.

The president’s visit is seen as a significant gesture of solidarity, as efforts continue to provide relief to those impacted by the calamity.

The flood’s aftermath has been devastating, with residents struggling to recover from the destruction of homes and essential infrastructure.

Government agencies and humanitarian organizations have been working around the clock to provide relief, but the challenges remain overwhelming.

Many are hopeful that the president’s visit will not only bring much-needed aid but also shine a light on the urgent need for long-term solutions to prevent similar disasters in the future.

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In the coming days, authorities will likely focus on rehabilitating displaced persons and reconstructing damaged areas.


 

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President Tinubu Visits Maiduguri to Offer Condolences After Devastating Floods

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President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Maiduguri to extend his condolences to the government and people of Borno State following severe floods. The disaster has caused widespread damage, affecting homes, hospitals, markets, schools, and other public facilities. Tinubu’s visit demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting the region during this challenging time as efforts to provide relief and rebuild the affected areas continue.


 

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First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Calls for Unity and Peace in Eid-el-Maulud Message

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Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has extended warm wishes to the Muslim community in celebration of Eid-el-Maulud, a significant event that marks the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

In her message issued from Abuja on Monday, Tinubu encouraged Muslims to reflect deeply on the Prophet’s teachings of love, kindness, and tolerance.

She highlighted how these values can help forge a more cohesive and harmonious society.

“As we come together to celebrate this year’s Maulud Nabiyy, we are reminded of the enduring principles of peace, compassion, and unity that the Prophet Muhammad embodied throughout his life,” Tinubu said.

The First Lady’s message was a call to embrace these ideals, suggesting that they are crucial for building stronger communities and a more united nation.

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She expressed her hope that the blessings of this sacred occasion would bring joy and tranquillity to both homes and the country at large.


 

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